Sound thinking makes all the difference
By focusing on the theory, history, and techniques behind music and sound design, students of sound design and production gain an understanding of what elements make compelling compositions, soundtracks and sound effects. Topics include:
- Music Theory and Musicianship
- Music History and Literature
- Audio production for animation, film, and video games
- Sound recording, performance and production techniques
- Using professional digital audio workstation (DAW) software and hardware
- Shaping mood and setting with music and sound
- Implementing sound into games and animations
Music & Sound Programs
Pre-College Music & Sound Design for Games
Students gain an understanding of the elements that make a video game’s soundtrack a compelling experience.
WANIC Intro to Music & Sound Design
This 3-week Summer Program focuses on the creative and technical aspects of music and sound design, production, and implementation.
WANIC Music & Sound Design
This program focuses on the creative and technical aspects of music and sound design, production, and implementation.
Ready to take the next step?
Who should take Music & Sound programs
DigiPen Academy Music and Sound Design courses combine foundational music coursework with practical training in studio recording and sound design. Students will learn how to create music and soundscape for games and digital media, as well as be introduced to software engineering and digital audio systems for video games and interactive media.
Build a Musical Foundation
Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of music history, theory, composition and recording techniques. They will also compose, produce and implement original sound for student video games.
Become Familiar with the Recording Studio
Students will have an opportunity to learn about studio recording techniques, including mixing, synthesis, digital audio workstation hardware and software, as well as learn the fundamentals of studio equipment and acoustics.
Study a Blend of Science and Music
In addition to the above skills mentioned, students will learn about computer science and audio software tools for games, as well as how sound and music can adapt to player output.
Career outlook
Do you see yourself in a career creating music and audio content for film or digital entertainment industries?
Be introduced to a wide variety of music- and audio-related careers in existing and emerging industries, such as video games, film and animation, theater, radio, television, and web/new media.
Potential Careers:
Audio Engineer, Audio Production Editor, Composer, Creative Director, Film Composer, Music Arranger, Music Composer, Music Producer, Sound Designer, Sound Technician, Recording Engineer, Engine and Tools Programmer
Example Median Yearly Salary in the Seattle Metro area:
- Music Directors and Composers - $51,170
- Sound Engineering Technicians - $55,950
- Audio and Video Technicians - $71,420
*Source: careeronestop.org, U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics 2021